Scarlett Johansson is set to lead the upcoming Exorcist film produced by Universal and Blumhouse–Atomic Monster.
Scarlett Johansson will headline a new exorcist film. Mike Flanagan is handling writing, directing, and producing duties for the latest chapter, which is being pitched as a “bold, reimagined approach” to the franchise. The first Exorcist film, directed by William Friedkin, centers on a mother (Ellen Burstyn) who turns to two Catholic priests for help in exorcising a demon from her 12-year-old daughter (Linda Blair).
Debuting in 1973, the movie became both a critical and box-office success, earning $441 million worldwide and securing 10 Academy Award nominations.
Scarlett Is An Intriguing, Extraordinary Actress
“Scarlett is an exceptional performer whose work always feels authentic and engaging, whether she’s in genre pieces or major tentpole films. I’m thrilled to have her on board for this new Exorcist project,” said Flanagan, known for Doctor Sleep and The Life of Chuck.
In 2021, Universal spent an unprecedented $400 million to acquire the rights for a new Exorcist trilogy.
However, the studio’s initial effort to kick-start the series, 2023’s The Exorcist: Believer, fell short of establishing a successful franchise.
Exorcist Earned $136 Million
The movie had $136 million income worldwide. The result was respectable, but it did not generate enough enthusiasm to drive interest in additional sequels. The new Exorcist movie will take place in the same universe as the 1973 original, but it will not serve as a follow-up to Believer. Apart from that, no story information or casting additions have been announced yet. Production is scheduled to take place in New York City.
Johansson also revitalized another major Universal franchise with this summer’s Jurassic World Rebirth, which brought in $868 million worldwide.
Johansson, who earned Academy Award nominations for Marriage Story and Jojo Rabbit, made her directing debut earlier this year with Eleanor the Great, a warmhearted dramedy featuring June Squibb.